Mahabharata Shanti Parva – तस्मान नैव मृदुर नित्यं तीक्ष्णॊ वापि भवेन नृपः

Shloka (श्लोक)

तस्मान नैव मृदुर नित्यं तीक्ष्णॊ वापि भवेन नृपः
वसन्ते ऽरक इव शरीमान न शीतॊ न च घर्मदः

⚡ Quick Meaning

This shloka speaks to the balance needed in a ruler’s temperament.

Translations

English Translation

A ruler should neither be perpetually mild nor excessively harsh. Like the sun that provides balanced warmth and does not create cold or excessive heat, a wise ruler must maintain an equilibrium to nurture his subjects without oppressing them.

हिंदी अनुवाद

एक राजा न तो हमेशा मृदु होना चाहिए और न ही अत्यधिक तीखा। जैसे सूरज संतुलित गर्मी प्रदान करता है और ठंड या अत्यधिक गर्मी नहीं करता, वैसे ही एक बुद्धिमान राजा को अपने प्रजाओं का पालन करने के लिए संतुलन बनाए रखना चाहिए।

Commentary

Context

This verse emphasizes the necessity of maintaining balance in leadership qualities as delineated in the Shanti Parva.

Meaning

It underlines that a successful ruler must embody a blend of gentleness and firmness, ensuring effective governance without instigating fear or disrespect.

Application

Leaders today can learn from this to balance authority with a nurturing approach, fostering growth while being decisive.